Birmingham Park Run Cancelled After Travellers Take Over Site
Organisers of a popular Birmingham park run have cancelled this weekend's event after travellers took over the site. A convoy of caravans rolled onto Woodgate Valley Country Park last weekend after allegedly breaking a gate lock.
The incursion was reported to the city council, and the group was said to have been ordered to leave by Friday, June 19. However, Woodgate Valley Park Run said the grounds would not be ready to host the 5km event, which attracts hundreds of people, so it had been cancelled for this week.
In a Facebook post, the organisers stated: "We've made an early decision to cancel this week's parkrun at Woodgate. There are currently travellers on the finish field. They will be evicted on Friday but the field will not be in a useable state in time for parkrun. Please take the opportunity to volunteer at or visit another parkrun. We'll see you back at Woodgate on 27th June."
Local Councillor Responds
Quinton councillor Dr Nagu Penakacherla said: "Following concerns raised by myself and the Bartley Green councillors, the unauthorised encampment has now moved from Barnes Hill to the Woodgate Valley area. As part of our FIX48 commitment, we already reported this to Birmingham City Council and will continue pushing for swift action to resolve the issue within 48 hours. We are actively monitoring the situation, working closely with the relevant authorities, and will keep you updated on progress."
The free event is held weekly off Clapgate Lane, Bartley Green, and winds through pretty semi-rural parkland. Hundreds of participants typically take part in the popular run, which has become a staple of the local community. Organisers hope to resume the event on June 27, pending the condition of the site.
